So You've Had a Loss … What to do Next
(From the Cumberland Insurance Group)
REPORT ALL LOSSES, NO MATTER HOW MINOR, TO YOUR INSURANCE AGENT AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.
Following a fire, smoke or water loss, many home owners attempt to remedy the situation themselves. Without proper training and equipment, your well-intentioned efforts can result in more harm than good. Here are a few tips to follow should you have the misfortune of sustaining a loss:
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Don't clean any room surfaces or furnishings. Improper cleaning methods may permanently set stains or soil.
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Don't send smoke saturated clothing to a dry cleaner. Normal dry cleaning can set smoke stains and odor.
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In the event of smoke damage, do not clean walls that are painted with flat paint.
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In the event of electrical or water damage to appliances, contact a reputable appliance repair person to check the affected appliances to avoid short circuiting.
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Clean smoke damaged laminated plastic or chrome fixtures in the kitchen and bath to prevent tarnishing and wipe residue from porcelain bathroom fixtures to prevent etching.
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Lift draperies off water damaged carpets and hang on drapery rod by looping through a plastic coat hanger.
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Punch small nail holes in sagging ceilings to allow water to drain.
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In the event of windstorm damage to a roof, call a roofer to do emergency repairs, i.e. tarps or plywood over damaged areas, etc. Tack down loose shingles to prevent further damage. Then protect personal property (contents) from outside elements.
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Find out beforehand where water shutoff valves are located. In the event of water damage, turn water off.
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In the event of theft/vandalism, notify local police immediately. Give police a list of items known to be missing at the time and advise them of additional items discovered missing. Keep receipts for large items in a fireproof box or an off-premises container to aid in establishing values.